A Guide to Eloping in Central Park
For many people who visit NYC, the definition of romance is Central Park. I have to say that even as a native New Yorker, Central Park continues to inspire me.
For most couples who elope in NYC, you will be planning your entire wedding from overseas or out of state. I want to give you a “picture” of all the amazing locations for elopements in Central Park.
The hard part is…where to begin!!
1. Wagner’s Cove: A secluded and hidden gem in the centre of the park
Down a lush green winding path, you will find this secluded hidden gazebo on the water. Privacy Here is pretty much guaranteed, and it is way off the beaten path. It is a small space, so if you have more than 6 guests, I would not recommend this spot. Is it possible to get a permit for Wagners Cove so that we can be assured there will not be any other activities going on there
2. Cop Cot: The go-to micro wedding spot in central park
Cop Cot is both iconic and convenient. Located at the south end of Central Park, just off of Central Park South, Cop Cot is a two-minute walk from the iconic Plaza Hotel. This is a great ceremony location if you plan to have guests because it has built-in seating and seclusion, and it’s a short walk from the street, so guests have no chance of getting lost in the park.
It’s enclosed with gorgeous dappled sunlight pouring in through the vines on the gazebo. We ❤️ Cop Cot
3. Ladies Pavillion
Ladies Pavilion is an Architectural Gem. Light blue ornate cast iron encloses you in a magical little cocoon.
The Ladies Pavilion was designed by architect Jacob Wrey Mould in 1871 as a shelter for carriage riders. Choosing this Central Park location for an intimate ceremony you cannot go wrong. The Pavilion itself comfortably holds the bride, groom, and your officiant and can be reserved with a permit in advance.
4. Glen Span Arch and The North Woods
At the northernmost tip of Central Park lies Glen Span Arch, which marks the entrance to the Ravine and the North Woods. With meandering paths, a dense canopy of trees, and cascading waterfalls, the Ravine evokes the wilderness of the Adirondacks. Escape the chaos of NYC and discover this peaceful wild woodland that is undiscovered by most visitors.
This is a great choice for a ceremony location and photoshoot where the sounds of NYC are drowned out by waterfalls and bird songs.
5. San Remo View
10 min walk from Bethesda Fountai,n and Terrance is a sweet little ceremony nook! On this beautiful spot, the view of the San Remo building towers over you. Designed by architect Emery Roth in the Renaissance Revival style, it is a favorite building of many New Yorkers. It is a popular photo spot for tourists, so patience is required.
6. Bethesda Terrace
Right in the center of Central Park, Bethesda Terrace was designed as the park’s showpiece, as the Park’s most prominent display of art and architecture and one of its few formal landscapes, contrasting the more naturalistic design of the rest of the Park. At the center of the Terrace stands Bethesda Fountain, also known as Angel of the Waters, one of the Park’s most beloved works of art. The grand staircases leading to the lower level, as well as and additional piers with carvings that depict the four seasons with detailed renderings of fruit, flowers, plants, and birds.
There is a lot of beauty packed into a small area here, it’s practically a requirement for any Central Park photo stop.
7. Gapstow Bridge and The Pond
Just steps from the iconic Gapstow Bridge there is a sweet little ceremony spot on the banks of Central Park’s famous pond. We love this spot because it is at the edge of the park and there isn’t much walking for you or your guests.
Summer Vibes
From June to late September in NYC, Central Park bursts with greenery and lushness. The late summer sun is beautiful for photos. Celebrate with a picnic and a bottle of champagne! Summer in Central Park is awesome.
Autum Vibes
Sweater weather, pumpkin spice lattes, and faux fur throws on your wedding day. Peak foliage in NYCusually falls around late October, with glorious pops of yellow from our 100-year- old gingko trees and bright red and orange from maple and oak. We know the best spots to capture all the beauty of Central Park during this season
Spring Vibes
Central Park is blessed with flowering trees throughout the park, including cherry blossoms, redbuds, magnolias, and azaleas. The best time for spring blooms is late April and early May.
Winter Vibes
December is one of our most popular months for elopements. The holiday time is so special in NYC, and Central Park is often quiet and serene during the winter.
